The Celtics were thrilled to get Chris Wilcox at the mini mid-level exception of $2.5 million and hoped the wildly inconsistent forward would respond when playing with a winning franchise. Wilcox has yet to play in the postseason during his nine-year NBA career.

The acquisition had yet to reap any benefits until about 10 days ago because Wilcox spent the first month banged up with a sprained left shoulder and left calf. Since being pressed back into the lineup during a comeback win against the Magic Jan. 26, Wilcox has been stellar as a backup forward-center.

In only 11 minutes yesterday at TD Garden, Wilcox scored 12 points and had five rebounds in the Celtics' easier-than-expected 98-80 win over the Grizzlies. Wilcox is accomplishing exactly what the Celtics envisioned; he is playing strong post defense, picking off rebounds, and scoring around the basket.